A good shopfront design grabs attention, entices customers and drives sales for retail businesses. It is a physical representation of your brand, and for a new customers, the first impression they will have of what is behind the glass.

In an age when many people do their shopping online, the high street remains a key element of the local economy and has an important role to play for local traders and businesses. A well-designed shop front not only maximises the view of what’s inside but also enhances the appearance of the area and creates a welcoming environment for visitors, shoppers and local residents alike.

The Psychology of Shopfront Design: How Colors Influence Shoppers

The type and scale of a shop front should be in keeping with the building it occupies and reflect its type. For example, a more contemporary design for a technology business or a traditional style for a shop that trades on the past – such as a vintage fashion store or a sweet shop.

Maximized views of what’s inside the shop can be achieved through a combination of clever window displays, lighting and furniture. For example, a clothes boutique can display a selection of their best-selling items or dress a mannequin in on-brand attire. Alternatively, an independent shop selling homeware can create a display that inspires customers with ideas for using their products.

Integrated security features are another important consideration. Robust materials and reinforced doors deter intruders and provide reassurance to customers and staff. By ensuring that premises are accessible for wheelchair users, retailers are contributing to a fairer society and tapping into the potential of the Purple Pound – the spending power of disabled people in the UK which currently stands at PS274 billion per year.